BIOL 138 Introduction to Polar Systems

This course will examine current polar science that has relevance to critical environmental issues and policies for the high latitude regions. It will provide a foundation on topics such as ice core interpretation, declining sea ice and changes in ice sheet dynamics, alterations in the terrestrial and marine carbon cycles, and climate change impacts on polar biodiversity. The later portion of the course will focus on the development of a group interdisciplinary research project. This is a core course in the IGERT Polar Environmental Change curriculum. In keeping with the interdisciplinary theme of this course, several faculty will lecture or lead discussions. Professor Virginia is responsible for organizing the course, administration and assigning final grades.